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Which Honda Odyssey seats 8?

The Honda Odyssey seats eight people in its standard configuration.


Understanding which trims and configurations allow eight-passenger seating is important for families evaluating space, comfort, and flexibility. In the Odyssey lineup, eight-passenger seating is achieved with a three-across second-row bench plus a three-across third-row bench. If you opt for second-row captain's chairs, the total seating drops to seven. This article explains which models typically offer eight seats and how to verify seating when shopping or buying used.


Trims and typical seating configurations


Below are the trims that typically offer eight-passenger seating when they are equipped with the standard second-row bench and third-row bench. Availability can vary by model year and market, so always confirm with the dealer or check Honda’s official specifications for the exact vehicle.



  • LX

  • EX

  • EX-L

  • Touring

  • Elite


Note: Some of these trims can be ordered with second-row captain's chairs instead of the bench, which lowers capacity to seven. Always check the exact configuration on the window sticker or manufacturer brochure to confirm seating.


In practice, the eight-passenger layout is the baseline option on these trims when the bench seating is installed. If captain's chairs are chosen for the second row, plan for seven seats instead.


How to verify eight-passenger seating when shopping


To ensure you’re getting eight seats, use these checks during shopping or when reviewing a used Odyssey’s specifications:



  • Confirm the second-row arrangement is a 3-person bench (not two captain’s chairs).

  • Verify the third row is a 3-person bench, providing three seats at the rear.

  • Read the window sticker or official brochure to confirm “8-passenger seating” as a listed feature.

  • Ask the dealer to show the seating layout in person or to provide a seating diagram for the exact vehicle.

  • If buying used, check the vehicle history or dealer listing for notes about seating configuration and any optional seating packages.


With these checks, you’ll be able to confirm whether a specific Odyssey configuration seats eight or seven, depending on the presence of second-row captain's chairs.


Summary


The Honda Odyssey typically seats eight when configured with a three-across second-row bench and a three-across third-row bench. If the second row uses captain's chairs, the total drops to seven. For buyers, the key is to verify the exact seating arrangement on the trim and year you’re considering, using window stickers, brochures, and a hands-on inspection or dealer confirmation.

Is Odyssey Elite or Touring better?


In the 2025. Model year while the Elite is over $52,000. So let's see what you get for those additional $4,000.



Does the Honda Odyssey have 8 seats?


Yes, the Honda Odyssey has 8 seats, providing enough space for up to eight passengers. The vehicle is designed as an 8-passenger minivan with a standard third-row seat and flexible second-row seating, often featuring the Magic Slide® system for easier access and seating configurations.
 

  • Seating capacity: The Honda Odyssey seats up to eight passengers. 
  • Third-row seating: It comes with a standard third-row seat. 
  • Second-row flexibility: The Magic Slide® 2nd-row seats allow for easy access to the third row and multiple seating arrangements. 



Can you add an 8th seat to a Honda Odyssey?


It is available as a 7-seater or 8-seater… and we STRONGLY encourage getting the 8-seater as you don't want to lose out on the best seat of the house (2C). The 7 & 8 seater models are identical except for the 8 seater model adds an easily-removable seat in the 2nd row center.



What Hondas have 8 seats?


Honda offers the 8-seater Pilot SUV and Odyssey minivan as its main options for a vehicle with that seating capacity. The Pilot is a mid-size SUV with a standard 3.5L V6 engine and available AWD, while the Odyssey is a minivan with a similar V6 engine and 8-passenger configurations in most trims.
 
Honda Pilot

  • Vehicle Type: 3-row mid-size SUV 
  • Engine: 285-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine 
  • Seating: Up to 8 passengers on most trims 
  • Key Features: Second and third-row seats that recline, and second-row seats with a one-touch slide for third-row access. 

Honda Odyssey
  • Vehicle Type: Minivan
  • Engine: 280-hp 3.5-liter V6 engine
  • Seating: Up to 8 passengers, depending on the trim level
  • Key Features: Flexible configurations, and features like CabinWatch and CabinTalk are available on higher trims. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.